The primary reason I listen to Nevermore: Jeff Loomis. This aside, there has to be an appreciation of the music because looking up to Jeff Loomis as one of the most talented guitarist in metaldom could be done independently. But Nevermore's music is as heavy as it gets without treading the boundaries of metal's other sub-genres where extremity is obligatory. The Obsidian Conspiracy is a grabber from the start thanks to Mr. Loomis' commanding fretwork & intricate musicianship involving Warrel Dane, the band's vocalist, as well. Throughout the entire album, the production clarity & precision were impressive & this made the music more enjoyable, especially during the laid back moments when things get sitar-laden & the only thing metal is the band's subliminal presence. My interest in American metal bands is numbered but Nevermore will always be on my watch list. This is heavy metal without the worry of selling out.
